This episode features Lisbeth Ortiz, a Mexican-born visual artist whose work explores identity, resilience, and cultural heritage. She shares her journey from Mexico City to Houston and New York, her artistic inspirations, community initiatives like the Frida Festival, and her ongoing projects that celebrate and empower Latin culture. Lizbeth reflects on her upbringing and experiences, stating that where one is born matters less than how one grows. She shares a personal realization about something special and mentions the Latin Grammys in Houston in 2007, encouraging perseverance, drawing on key life lessons, and personal development. This reflection offers insights into human behavior, psychology, and the importance of mindset. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lisbeth Ortiz 02:19 Art as Healing: Lisbeth's Journey 06:53 Cultural Identity and Migration 15:23 The Frida Festival: Celebrating Legacy 19:40 Building Community Through Art 22:58 Recognition and Opportunities in Art 24:54 Collaborations and International Projects 27:46 Inspiration and Future Aspirations 31:54 Rapid Fire Questions and Advice for Young Artists

In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, we sit down with Don Wismer, Director of Education for America’s Beauty Show, to explore how beauty education is evolving and what this means for the industry's future. Don shares why today’s beauty professionals must go beyond technique and embrace a deeper understanding of science, business strategy, and client consultation. As clients become more informed—especially about topics such as hair loss, scalp health, and personalized services—stylists need to continually expand their knowledge to stay relevant and build trust. We also dive into Don’s work advocating for positive change in the industry. He discusses initiatives like Dare to Care, which focuses on anti-bullying and LGBTQ+ support in schools, and She Leads, a program designed to empower and mentor women in the beauty industry. Throughout the conversation, Don reflects on leadership in high-pressure environments, the importance of mentorship, and why a culture of continuous learning is essential for beauty professionals who want to thrive. If you care about the future of beauty education, professional growth, and building a stronger industry, this episode is full of insight and inspiration. 00:00 Transforming Education at America's Beauty Show 04:46 The Future of Beauty Education 10:10 Innovative Approaches to Learning 15:15 Addressing Hair Loss and Scalp Health 20:14 Embracing Diversity in Beauty Education 23:29 Leadership in High-Pressure Environments 25:46 The Art of Listening and Leadership 31:06 Advocacy and Inclusion in the Industry 37:40 Empowering Women in the Beauty Industry 39:11 Rapid Fire Insights and Personal Reflections

In this episode, we hear from an entrepreneur, author, and mentor who shares her journey of writing a memoir. She discusses how the process became one of healing and personal growth, offering her new mental clarity. Discover how she found her purpose of life through this experience and the self development gained along the way.

In this episode, Maria Arellano shares her transformative journey from struggling with weight and self-image to embracing a healthier lifestyle and body positivity. Through her experiences in photography and personal growth, she emphasizes the importance of mindset, identity, and the tools that helped her achieve her goals. Maria's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and the realization that true beauty comes from within. Chapters 00:00 Journey of Transformation 02:45 The Art of Photography and Self-Expression 10:46 Navigating Career Changes and Passion Pursuits 13:01 Personal Transformation and Identity Shift 22:07 Embracing Body Positivity and Health Awareness 23:23 Finding Time for Self-Care 24:34 Confronting Dependency and Lifestyle Changes 25:49 The Impact of Weight Loss on Perception 27:38 The Role of Coaching and Community in Fitness 29:58 Shifting Mindsets: From Restriction to Nourishment 32:03 The Importance of Movement and Daily Activity 33:28 Connecting Through Shared Experiences 35:10 Understanding Insecurities and Body Image 37:01 The Journey of Weight Loss and Muscle Preservation 39:34 Redefining Success and Self-Compassion 41:42 Encouragement for the Journey Ahead

In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts Lulu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson welcome celebrity hairstylist Sarai Martinez. They explore Sarai's journey from studying fashion design in Canada to becoming a renowned hairstylist in the beauty industry. The conversation delves into the intricacies of working with clients, the chaos behind the scenes at fashion shows, and the difference between being camera-ready and being real in real life. Sarai shares insights on building trust with clients, managing stress during photo shoots, and the importance of continuous education in the beauty field. The episode also touches on the future of the beauty industry with the integration of AI and concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal Sarai's personal style and preferences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts 01:30 Sarai Martinez: A Journey in Cosmetology 05:39 Adapting to Different Client Needs 10:45 Behind the Scenes of Fashion Week 15:32 The Difference Between Camera Ready and Real Life 19:12 Building Trust with Clients 21:35 The Stress of Photo Shoots 23:47 Maintaining Calmness and Health in High-Pressure Situations 26:53 Being a Trendsetter vs. Following Trends 28:42 The Future of the Beauty Industry 30:32 Rapid Fire Questions with Sarai Martinez

In this engaging conversation, Lucia shares her journey in the hairdressing industry, starting from her early days at 15 to becoming a sought-after stylist for celebrities and major brands. She discusses the importance of passion, the differences between fashion and real-world glamour, and her experiences working with renowned professionals. Lucia also highlights her role as a lead stylist for the texture team and her personal connection to cancer care, stemming from her mother's battle with the disease. The conversation wraps up with rapid-fire questions that reveal her insights and future aspirations in teaching and in expanding her impact in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Journey into Hairdressing: Early Beginnings 03:08 Aha Moments: Recognizing Success in the Industry 06:06 Fashion vs. Real World Glamour: Understanding the Differences 08:57 Passion in Hairdressing: Learning from the Best 12:00 The Importance of Texture: Leading the Texture Team 15:04 Cancer Care and Hair: A Personal Journey 18:04 Rapid Fire: Insights into the Artist's Mind 21:06 Future Aspirations: Teaching and Expanding Horizons

In this episode of Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, we sit down with Richard Krammes—veteran hairstylist, wig designer, and educator with 35+ years in the professional beauty industry and theatre. Richard shares how he went from barber school and salon life to discovering the “hidden world” of wigs, learning under masters at places like the Banff Centre, and stepping into high-level productions at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA). You’ll hear what it really takes to build wigs for live performance—historical accuracy, collaboration with directors and costume designers, and the pressure of backstage quick changes (including a wild 42-second wig change story!). Richard also talks about teaching the next generation at Boulder TEC, why “show up and be ready” is still the secret to longevity, and how creativity can open doors you never planned for. Follow Richard on Instagram: @RichardWighead Subscribe for more conversations with creative pros across industries.

Artists, Icons, and Entrepreneurs, hosts LuLu Benavidez and Sue Krokonis Hanson, sit down with Coach Chris Baran, renowned salon educator and founder of Trainers Playbook, to explore what it takes to build high-performing teams and modern training systems in today’s beauty industry. Chris shares how he went from unexpectedly entering the hairdressing world to becoming a respected leader in professional education. Drawing on decades of experience, he explains why systematized training is no longer optional—and how salons can create clear, repeatable pathways that help stylists and educators grow faster, with less stress and more consistency. The conversation dives into the biggest training mistakes salons make, especially when relying on outdated methods that don’t connect with today’s emerging professionals. Chris explains why training must evolve to meet the needs of Gen Z, including stronger engagement, clearer communication, and an environment built for rapid skill development. You’ll also hear practical insights on: * How to improve associate training with standards, assessments, and accountability * Why delegation is key to breaking income ceilings and reaching six figures * How to build a healthy salon culture through aligned values and expectations * The power of creating a team “Code of Honor,” to encourage constructive feedback and reduce conflict * Reframing “selling” into caring, and why ethical recommending improves client outcomes and loyalty Whether you’re a salon owner, educator, or stylist building your career, this episode offers a clear roadmap for thriving in an industry that’s changing fast—without losing the heart of great service. Learn more about Trainers Playbook:Trainersplaybook.com Follow Coach Chris Baran on Instagram: @CoachChrisBaran 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, like, subscribe, and share with a salon professional who’s passionate about education and culture. #Trainers Playbook #salon training system #genz #associates # accelerator #accountability #minimum salon standard#assessmentstrategies #benchmark#delegation #culture #values#sell #care Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Coach Chris Barron 01:37 Chris's Journey into Beauty Education 07:13 Common Mistakes in Training Associates 10:57 Adapting Training for Gen Z Stylists 13:10 Creating Six-Figure Earners 20:44 The Importance of Delegation 25:57 Building a Positive Salon Culture 28:19 Aligning Values in the Workplace 29:43 Establishing a Code of Honor in Business 32:07 Reframing Sales as Caring 34:29 The Impact of Awards and Personal Growth 40:46 Effective Training Programs and Accountability 54:32 Rapid Fire Questions with Chris Baran

In this episode, Claudia Macias shares her inspiring journey in education, from her early experiences as a bilingual student to founding KIPP elementary schools. She discusses her collaborations with major educational institutions, the importance of storytelling in education, and her initiatives promoting healthy habits through Veggie Pals. Claudia also highlights the significance of early childhood development and the need for self-care among educators and parents. Her insights and experiences provide valuable lessons for anyone involved in education and parenting.